This worldwide travel search engine lists more than 20,000 of the very best travel Web sites from around the world, and is packed with information on airports, luxury hotels, self-catering vacation rentals, bed and breakfasts, lodging apartments, other accommodation, cheap flights, car rentals, insurance and general tourist information.
Whether you're interested in a honeymoon hotel in Paris, sightseeing tours in London, shopping in New York City or a golf holiday in South Africa, browse our site and discover the best ways to travel and discover the world!

Whether you are a first-time tourist or not, the internet is a valuable source of information that can make your life much easier. For instance, visiting online travel websites can help you find great deals and discounts on your airfare. This allows you to save some money which can be a huge benefit, especially if you are travelling with your family. The same thing can be said when it comes to hotel rooms and available travel packages.

Here is the review of the top 4 discount travel websites:

1. Priceline.com

Priceline is the best discount travel website if you’re on a budget. With this site, you can decide how much you want to pay for a flight, rental car or a hotel and then the site will inform you if your bid has been accepted. By using this site, you can get huge discounts but the problem is, it utilizes a bidding service. With this kind of service, you will only know what you’re bidding after your bid has been accepted.

2. Expedia

Expedia is another good discount travel website which has numerous coupons and offers. A simple mouse click on their deals section can save you a lot of money. In Expedia, you are able to see the latest promotions and the lowest prices on hotels, cruises, airfares, and more. You will be able to find a deal depending on the area you are travelling to. With their many coupons, you can save up to 200 dollars or more. On this site, you get will exclusive discounts if you sign up for their mailing list or use their app.

3. Hotwire

This is the third best travel website which offers good deals particularly for hotels. Just like Expedia, Hotwire has a Deals section where you can find good deals on flights, hotels and resorts depending on the city you are travelling to. If you book a vacation package, you will save more than booking for a single hotel or flight.

4. Travelocity

This is the fourth best discount travel website in my list. With this site, you will get huge discounts especially when you book a hotel or flight together with a rental car. They also have a Deals page where you can get the latest deals and discounts. Unlike many other travel websites, Travelocity will not charge you for changing or canceling your trip.

Benefits of Using Travel Websites

Travel sites will allow you to take control of your entire schedule. You will be able to find offers that perfectly match your budget and interest. You can also enter your email address for newsletters so you can automatically receive updates straight in your inbox.

To simplify things even more, you can check out aggregator websites which give you quick access to relevant information from different travel-related resources on the net. With aggregators, you wouldn’t have to jump from one site to another just to acquire the details you need.

Of course, you can also read reviews of specific packages if you want to find additional travel website info.

Most of these reviews are posted on actual travel sites but feel free to check out forums and blogs, too. You’ll benefit a lot by reading what others have to say about packages they’ve availed of in the past. This is an effective way for you to know which offers are best and which ones should be avoided. Learning from the experiences of others can definitely save you from heartache and huge expenses.

Also, you have to realize that not all websites out there are truthful. Try studying all the details of a package before signing up for it. Some bad sites have the habit of charging their clients with hidden fees. Again, taking the time to read client feedback can help you prevent any undesirable instances.

Finally, you can utilize online travel resources to watch videos and take a look at pictures of the places you plan to visit. This can increase everyone’s excitement for the upcoming trip. On top of that, choosing specific attractions will be stress-free since you will get a good preview of the available options.How to Look for Reputable Online Travel Websites

You can try using a standard internet search to find reputable online travel websites. You should also be aware of the normal rates in the industry so that you can easily spot travel sites that offer higher rates.

Ask people you know like family members, friends, neighbours, or co-workers who have used an online travel site. Today, online travel websites have become increasingly popular and many people are now using them. Ask these people about their experiences and if they are satisfied with the services rendered by these travel websites. Your travel, whether it’s a holiday or a business trip, can be more relaxing when you get the online travel website that can meet your needs.

If the economy has you rethinking that road trip across the United States, then turn your thoughts to the high seas. With food and lodging included in the ticket price, cruising the high seas has never been a better bargain. Cruise vacations have now made it possible to explore various exotic and beautiful places around the World. Starting from the famous rivers in Europe to the South Pacific Islands, there are a whole lot of places which are accessible through cruising.

The following are some suggestions on a few cruises to some very interesting places. You can choose the best suitable for you.

Western Caribbean

Consider a five-night cruise to the Western Caribbean. Starting at around $379 a person, you leave Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, and head out to George Town in the Cayman Islands and then to Cozumel, Mexico. This trip offers the best of the Caribbean world. Residents of the Cayman Islands enjoy the highest standard of living in the Caribbean. With lenient tax laws, it has more registered businesses than residents. As for Cozumel, they say that this area has a Mexican heart and a Caribbean soul – the best of all worlds.

Eastern Caribbean

Start off with a visit to the Big Apple – New York City, New York. After taking in a Broadway show and staying up all night in the city that never sleeps, you can choose to leave for the Eastern Caribbean from two cruise terminals: Brooklyn or Manhattan. Ships leaving from both terminals are bound for the Eastern Caribbean, one of the most popular spots for North American vacationers. Typically, cruise ships make stops in Puerto Rico, St. Thomas, the Bahamas and Turks and Caicos during the summer. There you will find some of the best beaches in the world, each location with its own special flavor.

Alaska

For sights you have never seen, consider a seven-night cruise to Alaska. Starting at $529 per person, you will board in Seattle, Washington, and then head out to Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan and Victoria. Remember that all prices are based on double occupancy and airfare is not included. Once in Alaska, take in all you can. Try to do Juneau in a day, seeing the glaciers, wildlife, having outdoor adventures and shopping.

In Ketchikan, you have the choice of hiking the Deer Mountain Trail or taking an interisland ferry to Prince of Wales. In Victoria, the capital of British Columbia, you will find something you may not expect in Alaska: lush green shrubbery, beautiful flower gardens and trees of every kind. This garden city is surrounded by the ocean and mountains. The city itself is full of historical sites as well as entertainment and seafood restaurants.

Mexico

There is probably no place quite as exotic as the Mexican Riviera. A seven-day cruise, starting in San Diego, California, can start as low as $499 per person. From Southern California, you will cruise to the following ports of call: Mazatlan, Puerto Vallarta and Cabo San Lucas. In Mazatlan you can tour the Sierra Madre Mountains where they begin on a peninsula extending into the Pacific Ocean. You might also walk its miles of beaches or break out your fishing rod and join fishermen from around the world. In Puerto Vallarta, called the “soul of Mexico,” you can visit some prestigious art galleries or dine in fabulous restaurants. In Cabo San Lucas, “the jewel of the Baja Peninsula,” you will find fabulous sporting opportunities like world-class golf courses designed by Tom Weiskopf and Robert Trent Jones II.

Europe

Even Europe is within reach these days. Consider a seven-day cruise with stops in Venice, Dubrovnik, Athens/Piraeus, Izmir, Nafplion and Venice. Prices are as low as $699 for an inside cabin or as high as $1,349 for a suite. Venice is one of those world-class cities that you should see before the high tides destroy it. Before you start your cruise, spend a day on its canals and take in the sites you have read about. Four days in, you will find yourself in Athens and Piraeus, Greece. Take in the sights of the largest shipping port in the world against the backdrop of the Aegean Sea. The final day will find you checking out Izmir, Turkey, home of the famous International Fair.

Australia

If Europe is not exotic enough, consider a cruise to Australia – the land down under. For as little as $485 a person, you can leave Sydney, Australia, and spend three days on the seas, visiting Burnie and Melbourne. Burnie is a large port with some spectacular scenery including beautiful waterfalls, nature areas, art galleries and even the Lactos Cheese Factory, offering a fascinating facility tour.

In Melbourne, you will find more than you can take in. It has everything you would expect from a world-class city, including beautiful buildings, art galleries, wonderful shopping districts and special events – like the country’s richest horse race, rugby and cricket. Because the city is home to people from more than 100 countries, you will find restaurants from Italy, Greece, Middle East, Africa and, of course, Australia.

Whether you’ve been on cruises before or this is your first jaunt, you’re bound to enjoy one of the most relaxing ways to see the world.

Are you an avid traveler who wants to explore and enjoy the breathtaking views of mother nature? Or, do you simply wish to visit beautiful international territories while having a smooth, hassle-free, and memorable journey? Well, enthusiastic travelers in the 18 years – 35 years age group, can now enjoy a sumptuous trip with Contiki.

From quick breaks to some epic journeys, the “Popular Contiki Tours” help you to make a trip to your dream location. Contiki Tours, being a prestigious Travel Corporation company operates in the major global continents like Australia, Europe, Russia, Egypt, New Zealand, South America, North America, and Asia.

Are you now excited to enjoy an unforgettable trip, filled with unexpected adventures, life-changing memories, and great sightseeing? Well, if yes, then look no further as you have landed on the right page! In this article, we are going to reveal the insightful details on the “Top 6 Popular Contiki Tours”. So, keep reading the following sections and discover more information.

1. European Discovery: From the breathtaking views of the Austrian mountain range to the sumptuous beauty of Germany, to a quick visit to the eternal city of Rome – you will get to cover a total of eight international countries in a single trip. Here, your heart-pounding adventure starts with a visit to the following locations, such as London, Amsterdam, the Rhine Valley, Munich, Austrian Tyrol, Innsbruck, Venice, Rome, Florence, Lucerne, Paris, and much more too. Note, it’s a complete 11-day long Contiki tour that offers you great accommodation facilities and a wide variety of mouthwatering food menus.

2. Travel Australia with Contiki: Australia is a place of vast open plains, rousing city scenes, endless natural beauty, magnificent culture, & an enviable attitude of native Australians. This country is best-known for its vast interior desert wilderness, popular landmarks (including the Great Barrier Reef and the Sydney Opera House), and its unique animal species. Contiki organizes a range of trips where you will get an incredible opportunity to visit and explore Australia.

As you probably know Australia is famous for its marvelous beaches and reefs. Thus, to enjoy the unconditional beauty of the East Coast of Australia, you can embark a tour to the famous Australian “Beaches and Reefs” (a Contiki-organized tour). Note, it’s a two-week trip that allows you to party in Surfer’s Paradise and helps you to learn/enjoy surfing.

This particular trip broadly covers the following locations of Australia – Sydney, Port Macquarie, Byron Bay, Coffs Harbour, Surfers Paradise, Brisbane, Currumbin, Noosa, Farmstay, Fraser Island, Cairns, and Townsville. Additionally, if interested, you are recommended to conduct a short wine tour to the Hunter Valley region from Sydney, Australia via minibus. Here to note, Hunter Valley region, located in New South Wales, is widely popular for being the best-known wine region of Australia.

3. Croatia Island Escape: Enjoy an 8-day based island hopping around the beautiful landscapes of Croatia. In this trip, you will visit the most popular tourist hotspots of Croatia, for example, Hvar, Dubrovnik, and Split etc. Also, throughout this trip, the inherent beauty of Adriatic Sea will keep you entertained and bless you with a refreshing and relaxing environment!

4. ‘Sweet As’ South: Do you want to visit the best locations of South! Well, from Christchurch to Queenstown to Lake Ohau – you can now have an incredible adventure with this “Popular Contiki Tour”. In this trip, you will kick-start your journey while heading towards Dunedin and then you’ll visit the adventurous Capital of the World – Queenstown. The famous locations that will be covered as a part of this trip include – Christchurch, Lake Tekapo, Lake Ohau, Moeraki, Dunedin, Queenstown, Wanaka, Haast Pass, Franz Josef Glacier, and Arthurs Pass etc.

5. Asian Adventure: Looking forward to enjoying a well-planned trip to Asia? If yes, then you will be glad to become a part of this Contiki tour. This is a 14-day based exclusive tour that offers you an incredible opportunity to visit the following Asian tourist spots – Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Pakbeng, Vang Vieng, Vientiane, Phnom Penh, and Siem Reap etc. So, get ready to explore the limestone caves of Laos, visit the sacred old Monks in Thailand, and lighten up your tastebuds with a range of delicious Asian cuisine.

6. London Explorer: Contiki’s London Explorer is a short and precise tour where you will definitely enjoy the local tourist attractions of London within a period of 3 days!

There is always that great idea of the United States of America as the great untamed wilderness, waiting to be tamed by man as the most beautiful country of adventure. There are some truly staggering landscapes, from the glassy waters of Alaska, to the sweeping Mountains that spread out through the country.

Among the pastures, there are rugged lands, but also quiet areas of great beauty; a feast of elements and landscapes boastfully stretching out into the distance.

So if you’re looking for high octane elemental adventure destinations, or a pastoral retreat overlooking the land here from a cabin or one of the Smoky Mountain rentals, then this is a guide for you to the Outdoor and Adventure Destinations in the USA.

Canyonlands, Utah

This is a heaven for mountain biking, as getting on your saddle and cycling over these climbs tends to be the best way to get around here.

The largest and most rugged of the national parks, this is a land of steep rocks and beautiful vistas. It would take at least a week to fully experience this park, with many tours tasking six days as they stop off at different locations along the way.

Rocky Mountains, Colorado

If you have ever flown to California the Rockies are hard to miss. Poking into the heavens as you fly over, they are the most distinct part of the journey.

In the Rocky Mountains, there are over 300 miles of walking routes, with paths that will suit everyone, from committed hikers to families that fancy a trip through nature. If you take a driving tour of the area, you can also hit Denver and take in some other national parks around the area.

Lake Powell, Utah

Lake Powell is one of the largest in the United States, spreading its length over 180 miles, and exploring by kayak brings a great sense of adventure and a feeling of Huckleberry Finn style expeditions. Take a nine-day tour down the water. This is a great area for picking up on American history, gleaning the geology, and a sense of the Native American history of the land.

Smoky Mountains National Park

Stretching over two states this park is the largest in the country. It is also the most visited in the States, though this is no reason to be put off – it is so vast that you can easily get away from the crowds. There are a massive variety of trees and plants here, and the park boasts a diverse ecosystem, encouraging all kinds of nature throughout the plains. This is a land that over the years has inspired great literature and artworks.

In the Smoky Mountains region, there is a diverse range of activities. Naturally, there is hiking through this vast and beautiful, noble lands. There is, true to the name, mountaineering. And then there are the high waters which are perfect for rowing, kayaking, and if you’re feeling into it, outdoor swimming. Then at night, they are perfect for a little night time reflection, with the towering mountains overhead as you rest with your thoughts.

While you are planning your adventure tour, it is important to make sure you are mentally and physically prepared for the trip.

The mere thought of adventure travel fills one with excitement and joy. The beauty of travel just makes you want to go with the flow and enjoy different destinations, cultures, customs, languages and people. From trekking through remote mountains, forests and deserts to exciting physical activities, like climbing mountains, paragliding, rafting and hiking, adventure travel is supposed to be as challenging as it is exhilarating. While you can’t be prepared for challenges, like variable flight delays, missing a flight or a car or bus breakdown, there are several other things you can make sure of, which include your luggage, clothing, ID, passport and other tour essentials.

Given the various challenges of adventure tours, here’s how you can prepare for an excellent and safe adventure trip.

Ensure You Have Peace of Mind

Believe it or not, half of your stress and worries disappear if you have your tour necessities managed. Before you hit the road, you need to make sure you are mentally ready for your travel. To achieve mental peace before you leave for your trip, you need to take care of all of your tour necessities. You can consider consulting with a travel agent to manage your travel docs, like ID, visa, and passport and arrange for other essentials, like flight tickets, itinerary and accommodation.

Ensure health and safety

As you need to be mentally prepared for your trip and make sure you want to do it, being physically fit and healthy is also something as important. For adventure travelers, it is necessary to make sure you are healthy enough to travel. Not only ensuring your health is important, you need to take some vital steps to ensure your health and safety abroad. Travel health experts are capable enough of identifying any possible health conditions to make sure the traveler receives all the required vaccinations and medications before departure.

Packing Tips

Avoiding illness on an adventure trip is necessary to ensure a pleasant and comfortable tour experience. If you are traveling to locations with extreme temperatures, make sure you have some warm woolen clothing in your bag. Add blankets, throws and lightweight clothes to your luggage and avoid stuffing your suitcase with unnecessary fancy fashion clothes. Additionally, do not forget a first aid kit, waterproof or plastic bags for storage, sports shoes or boots, a money belt, and cleansing gel. However, your clothes and other essential accessories may vary from region to region depending on the weather and temperature of the place you are traveling to.

Whatever your destination, following these safety tips will make sure you remain safe and healthy and get the most out of your travel. However, you can make your travel much more convenient and comfy by making your travel arrangements through a reliable travel company. Flight Masters offers some cheap flights to the USA, and many other destinations. You can book cheap flight tickets to India or any of your favorite travel destinations for your desired travel dates.

Would you like to know how to travel on a budget? Many people believe that a vacation must have some 5-star hotel and resort, with a ton of luxuries. Do you wish to be stuck in your room watching movies and ordering room service? You can do that at home. Wouldn’t you rather immerse yourself in a new culture and lifestyle? It is certainly possible to have a fantastic vacation to special places like the USA without spending a ton of money if you know some simple facts. Here are some tips to have a simple travel budget plan and save money:

Get The Cheapest Airfare
Make a budget for your flights and stick to it. You can usually get a cheaper rate by getting connecting flights instead of flights that go directly to your destination, or by traveling during the off-season. By booking your airline tickets at least 14 days in advance, you can cut the cost quite a bit. You may also save money by choosing a smaller airport to arrive into and taking a train or bus to your travel destination. Another option is to fly as a courier. The requirements for such a ticket are to apply for a position and be available to go whenever called upon. You will usually be carrying things that are to be shipped by airmail that needs to have a guaranteed delivery. You can save up to 50% on the cost of your flight by traveling as a courier. You can also get a cheap airfare by shopping online. Many online auction sites will offer better prices than by booking directly through the airlines. Do some simple research on the search engines, and you can usually find the best rates and travel coupons as well.

Accommodations
The best hotel rates can be found by booking your stay during the week when most people are working. It also helps to look at the individual hotels’ discounts and promotions for reserving your room early. If you travel just after the holidays when prices are the highest, you can take advantage of the post-rush lower rates. Some of the cheapest places to stay are in hostels, which are located in cities all around the world. They are cheaper than hotels and motels. Reserving a bed in one of their dorm rooms can help in cutting costs. Another option is to find a home exchange program online, swap homes, and stay for free. Many families prefer to trade homes during the holidays especially. An added benefit is the comfort of staying in a 1-4 bedroom home with a kitchen, as opposed to a cramped motel or an expensive hotel suite.

Dining

An exceptional way to save money on food is to buy it from a grocery store near your motel. You could make two of your meals from the food purchased at the store, and then budget one restaurant meal every day. Simply purchase snacks and breakfast foods from the store and keep them in your room. Remember, many hotels offer a free continental breakfast which will save you, even more, money.

Sightseeing
By walking to your destination, you can find many places like libraries and museums which offer free admission. It is also the least expensive way to get around. There is also public transportation which will save you money over using a taxi service. Plan ahead by looking at the local newspapers or websites of your vacation destination, and you might be able to find free local activities like wine tasting, festivals, and community events. If you wish to purchase souvenirs, don’t buy from the gift shops. These items will mostly be way overpriced. Go to the local shopping area to find deals on shirts, key-chains, mugs, and other collectibles. Strip malls and discount shops are the best spots to find affordable gifts to bring back home.

Avoid peak travel times
If you vacation when the masses do, you are going to pay for it. Consider straying from the norm a bit when it comes time to your booking dates, and you can save thousands. Off-peak travel time is when businesses are starved and not expecting much business, so this is when you get your best deals. You can even call a company and try to negotiate for a lower rate or fare when you take advantage of off-peak travel times.
Following the above travel tips, you can afford to travel even when money is tight. Working within a budget doesn’t have to mean that you have to stay at home throughout your vacation. With these tips, you can make the most out of your vacation time, no matter how much money you have to spend and still have a very good time.

Europe is known for its glamorous and well-maintained historical architecture. Most European itineraries have attractions that bring to life several ancient civilizations. In fact, Europe’s history is categorised into some important phases such as Greek, Roman, the Renaissance, the Reformation, the Revolution and the World Wars. Admittedly, the Renaissance is a well-loved, liberal and creatively stimulating era. Yet, the heritage sites of every culture have their own aesthetic beauty and unique vision.

So, when you want to travel to Europe’s historical destinations, you can adopt one of two strategies. You can either visit the “best of” each country or “best of” each historic era. Otherwise, you will be travelling all around this destination for a very long time. But, there are four must-visit cities in this destination, where you can witness Europe’s phenomenal historical glamour.

Rome is the most popular historic destination in this continent. As a capital city, it is part of all Italian holidays. Yet, your historical trip can include a very fascinating itinerary. You can book into one of the many historical hotels in Rome. It could heighten the historical vibe of a simple Italian holiday too. Historical sightseeing in Rome can vary based on the number of days in your Italian holiday. But, the must-see historical attractions in Rome include the Colosseum, the Palantino, the Roman Forum, the Pantheon, etc.

Prague is the capital of the Czech Republic. But historically, it was the capital of Bohemia and a major transportation hub between Europe and Asia. Today it has restored much of the ancient architecture dated from that period. The landmarks and attractions in this city had to undergo major restoration as the city was heavily bombed during the World Wars. The best examples of Romanesque architecture in Prague is the Prague Castle, the national theatre, St. Vitus Cathedral, Klementinum, Old Royal Castle, Museum of decorative arts, Charles Bridge, Ghetto museum, etc.

Vienna, another must-see destination, is the capital of Austria. The old world charm of this city is both endearing and memorable. Steeped in history, the imperial grandeur of this city is still alive and throbbing through its architecture, culture and art. Travellers fall in love with admirable structures such as the Shronnbrunn Palace, Belvedere Palace, imperial apartments, Sigmand Freud Museum, Otto Wagner houses, Spanish riding school and the Vienna State opera house. With such remarkable cultural landmarks, Vienna is still truly the cultural centre of Europe. Most popular European travel itineraries include Vienna for its elegance and historic appeal. You almost feel like you’ve stepped into a chapter in the history of Europe. So indulge your passion for history in your upcoming European trip.
Barcelona is another historical destination in Europe, being home to a number of impressive historical monuments that shed light into its development to the city it is today. Whether you are interested in the city’s history or architecture, the historical monuments in Barcelona are definitely worth a visit. Some of the monuments in Barcelona which attract tourists from all over the world include:

1. The Gothic Quarter – This is amongst the most popular historical monuments in Barcelona. This part of the Old City is made up of a collection of ancient buildings dating back to the medieval times. Within the Barri Gothic, you will find some remaining Roman ruins that are centuries old. The Headquarters of the Catalan government are also located in this part of town as well. Tourists looking to get an up close view of this historically significant part of the city of Barcelona are more than welcome to discover its hidden treasures. You can rent a Villa for a perfect view of this place.

2. Palau Guell– This building is among the first modernist buildings in the city of Barcelona. It is located in the Old City, demonstrating just how old it is. The Palau Guell was designed by the father of Catalan modernism, Antoni Gaudi for Eusebi Guell, an influential Catalan businessman. The standout part of the structure is the main hall where high society guests were entertained frequently. This building is one of the famous historical monuments in Barcelona and a UNESCO world heritage site as well.

These are some of the best historical destinations in Europe where you can take your family or spouse for a holiday. In addition to these destinations, you find countless resorts and hotels where you can book for your stay in Europe.

If you are looking for cruise holidays that offer culture, natural attractions and adventure then visiting South America could be for you. The continent is a clutter of 15 countries, but you will never get bored visiting each one of them as every country you visit has something special and exciting to offer. And with a Holland America Line cruise, you can pick the itinerary that suits your needs to ensure that you have a wonderful experience as you journey around South America.

There are also plenty of cruise deals on offer to ensure that your entire South American journey does not break the bank either. If you intend to visit the continent for a spot of culture, then Rio de Janeiro is sure to be on your planned itinerary.

Boasting some of the mainland’s most famous landmarks – such as Christ the Redeemer – as well as a host of museums, historical sights and even the biggest library in Latin America, you will be able to spend hours exploring all that the city has to offer.

On the other hand, if you prefer getting up close with some of the native wildlife, a cruise around the Galapagos Islands is a must. With a wide variety of species that are not found anywhere else in the world, you will be able to discover South America’s truly unique creatures.

Keep your eyes peeled for the marine iguanas which often take to the sea for a swim, or cast your eyes to the skies to discover some of the birds which are resident on the islands. Among them are the frigate bird, which is easily identifiable by its red chest, as well as blue-footed boobies and Galapagos penguins.

What’s more, you may enjoy all of the sights and discover South America’s beautiful sounds from the comfort of a five-star luxury cruise liner when you book with Holland America.

Vacations to South America are typically a once in a lifetime experience, which means that people who visit here often want to get the most out of every location they discover on their travels. If you’re considering a vacation to this continent, use these tips to help ensure that you have a magnificent time. It has such a wealth of different environments that you can go from trekking across glaciers to wandering out into the desert within days. Many people set out on a trip to South America for an extended period travelling, so I’ve put together a list of top tips to remember when heading out there.

1. Make Sure You See It All.

As there are so many fantastic places across the continent, it’s easy to get stuck in one place. Buenos Aires is renowned as somewhere where travelers get stuck and end up spending all their trip. While this will undoubtedly be a great experience, it’s such a shame to go so far and then only sample one place. With places like Iguazu Falls, Patagonia, and Machu Picchu just a sprinkling of what’s on offer you’d be a fool to only get a taste of one of them.

2. Travel By Bus

This may seem an obvious one, but often people are apprehensive about bus systems abroad, especially with the kind of distances you’re talking about here. However, the buses in South America are, on the most part, incredible – it’s like riding in the lap of luxury. It also gives you a chance to chat with locals when you’re on the longer journeys and get some insider tips. The only place this doesn’t apply is in Bolivia where you may find yourself sharing a seat with a chicken.

3. Ask The Locals

Following on from the previous point, the beautiful place to get information about your destination is from the people who live there. 99% of the people out there are friendly and will be more than happy to chat with someone from faraway lands. This is how you will discover the secrets that aren’t discussed in the guide books like little local restaurants or small clubs. You might even just have a fantastic chat with someone who has great stories and gets a genuine insight into the life of a Peruvian.

4. Consider Doing Brazil Separately

You don’t need a map to tell you how big Brazil is. It takes up nearly half of the entire continent and will be almost impossible to fully explore as part of a trip around South America unless you’ve got an exceedingly long time.It certainly warrants a trip in itself, and I would recommend giving it its own time with a separate trip. I don’t mean the whole place – Rio and the south coast are in touching distance of the rest of the continent but going up to Salvador, Brasilia and beyond requires a huge amount of effort.

5. Don’t Miss Patagonia.

It certainly is a long way to go and can be expensive if you do it at the last minute. However, it will be the best decision you ever made and the best money you ever spent.

Getting abroad is one of the most amazing experiences anyone can have, and staying at backpacker accommodation is the cheapest way. You may not have considered this because in most instances people see travelling abroad as a place for hotels and costly accommodation. They don’t realize that there are so many cheap options out there that can really cut down the biggest part of the budget.

Choosing appropriate backpacker accommodation is an easy task that requires few clicks of a mouse. So, if you are going abroad on your vacation, then make a prior booking to a suitable resort to avoid any hurdle that may come on a later stage. Prior booking is beneficial, especially when you are new to the place. It ensures that you have some place to stay in a foreign country.

Backpacker accommodation can provide excellent facilities to all guests at affordable prices. Book a room, deluxe, dormitory, double deluxe or ensuite room depending on your necessity. You will be offered many facilities such as proper parking space, a storage/drying room, laundry, internet vouchers, etc. along with a spacious room.

While looking for the best backpacker accommodation in the place you go for a vacation, there are several tips that will be helpful for you in choosing a reliable service provider and are as follows:

1. Exploration

Before you finalize a particular backpacker’s accommodation, it is very vital to do some research. Many of the hostels have got websites providing all the details of the facilities offered to the guests and the price of staying per night. Find out whether they have got single rooms, ensuite, dorm, a tent site, or deluxe room available. Some of the backpacker hostels have separate rooms for men and women. This could be a problem for people who are traveling with their partner. Therefore, look for an accommodation where the family can stay together. You can call on their number to clear your queries. All the reputed hostels have a receptionist who receives the calls of the customers to clear their doubts.

2. Feedback of the people

Check the social networking platforms like facebook to know the general feedback of the people about the best accommodation. Also, ask your fellow travelers who have been to the place and availed the facilities themselves.

3. Check the room

View the room before booking in order to know the overall condition of it. An unhygienic accommodation could spoil your mood and turn your holiday into a bad experience.

4. Split the groups to find the best accommodation

Traveling in a group is a great idea, especially when you are new to a place. Split up the group to check out the rooms in different areas and reach a common place to discuss your options. This will help you in finding suitable rooms in a short time and at lesser prices.

5. Follow the crowd

Generally, you will see a crowd in a place that has a good reputation. Same goes in case of finding a suitable accommodation. Therefore, choose the place where maximum people are residing during the holidays. There is a probability that the well-known accommodations are already occupied, but do not lose hope as you can still get the best one. Take the assistance of the internet and read reviews of the people to finalize an appropriate place for a relaxing stay.

Spend some time reading the reviews that other people have made and get an idea for the places you plan to go to. Make an informed decision about the places you are going to stay and then all you have to do is get there. Once you catch the travel bug, you may never lose it, so why not go out and explore the world in the most cost effective way you can imagine. You can meet new people and experience new things and really broaden your mind to a whole new level.

In conclusion, having a good time is exactly what most backpackers want. So do not miss the opportunity to mingle with others. Backpacker Accommodations hold a variety of guests throughout the year and you never know if you possibly could form a long lasting friendship. Join activities and celebrations if you encounter some on your vacation. Unwind and try to take in all the pleasurable things the areas provide.

By 1900, much of the African continent was already appealing to seven different European countries and their nationals. While the interest then was majorly for the purposes of control, and exploiting resources, the same magical and natural beauty that met them, keeps inviting millions of tourists to the continent every year.

This magic, the vast natural landscapes, breathtakingly beautiful flora and fauna and the warm nature of the inhabitants of the continent, easily makes it one of the great safari destinations in the world.

Here is a close look some top tours in Africa that you should experience at least once in a lifetime.

1. Namibia and Botswana Tour

Namibia is otherworldly beautiful while Botswana presents the best of game viewing in private reserves, all of which are thrilling scenes to experience. The combination of these two into a single safari easily sums up a tantalizing tour of Southern Africa.

Some of the great sights in Namibia are the Kalahari Desert with its approximately 5000 endemic plant species, the enchanting 160-kilometre long and 27-kilometre wide River Canyon and the beach resort of Swakopmund with its expansive sandy beaches.

While Botswana stands out with its calm reserves that teem with wildlife, the Chobe River, which is a great location for an African river cruise, is just as thrilling. Other locations in Botswana that together, constitute this great safari route include the astonishing Kubu Island, Makgadikgadi Pans, which are the largest salt pans in the world and the Kgalagadi Trans-Frontier National Park with all its almost 4 million hectares of natural beauty.

2. The Mara Serengeti tour

The Maasai Mara National Reserve in South Western Kenya offers 151,000 hectares of breathtakingly beautiful vistas and abundant wildlife in endless plains. The great migration that involves some two million wildebeest, zebras, lions every year, happens here! It is a spectacle like no other. Captivating to the observer, but presenting the raw struggles wild animals endure to survive.

The Serengeti National Park in Tanzania is the other half of the coin that is the Mara Serengeti Ecosystem. This expansive savannah in North Western Tanzania is about 1.5 million hectares of majorly African grassland savannah. Like the Mara, the chances of spotting the big five is more real here than in any other location in Africa.

3. Gorilla Trekking Tour in Uganda

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest Park in South Western Uganda is home to the remaining mountain gorillas in the world. The 33,000-hectare park, a strip of steep mountains enveloped in a bushy and steamy jungle, is one of the most ancient habitats in Africa, probably surviving even the last Ice Age.

It has a very broad altitude span that ranges from about 1100 meters to 2600 meters. This unique feature, coupled with its antiquity, has resulted in an unbelievably wide diversity of plant and animal species.

It is home to some 120 mammal species and 350 bird species. The showstopper however, remains the 350 mountain gorillas that inhabit this stretch. The trek within the forest to track these stunning apes is the highlight of any visit to Uganda.

4. Cape Town to Tanzania by train

For a long time, the train was the glamorous means of travel, and then things changed. In Africa however, you can still explore the best of South Africa, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Tanzania, entirely by train. This 22-day tour takes you through the best of Southern Africa with the possible sighting of the Big 5, great landscapes and wondrous sites as well as a beach getaway in the exotic tropic island of Zanzibar.

Some of the highlights of this once-in-a-lifetime tour are the vibrant South African city of Cape Town and the captivating Table Mountain nearby, a leisure tour of the fascinating Victoria Falls as well as scuba diving and snorkelling in the Indian Ocean.

The culmination of the tour and especially the relaxing bit on the powder-soft sands of the Zanzibar beaches make it an outstanding experience.

Africa is full of epic promise. The safari experiences are as delightful as they are diverse and, there is a lot to see and do. While wild animals now remain confined in parks, reserves and conservancies, decent sighting is still a walk in the park, literally. Moreover, the warm and welcoming nature of the local people will set even the most edgy person at ease. And, there is a lot to learn from the local cultures.

Common, go ahead and experience any or all of these top tours in Africa.